Bruce fell on sword for Hull City

Former Hull City manager Steve Bruce has said he had to leave for the sake of the club following his departure on the brink of the next Premier League campaign.

Bruce walked out on Friday, three weeks before the new season begins, having taken Hull back into the top-flight via the play-offs in May.

But amid rumours of disagreement with the owner and a shortage of resources, Bruce stood down.

In an open letter to the club's fans, published in the Hull Daily Mail on Monday, the former Manchester United defender said he felt it was the only choice he could make.

"My biggest regret is having to walk away but it was a decision I had to make for the sake of the club," he said.

"The last 12 months have been very tough and it felt like the right step for the club to move forward in a different direction and with someone else in charge.

"I desperately wanted to make it work this summer and be a Premier League manager again but, sadly, it wasn't to be."